Introduction
As a B.A. Journalism student at the University of East London, Abirami Saravanan has always believed in the power of storytelling to uplift, empower, and reflect authentic experiences. When she joined Next Gen as a part-time creative content producer, she saw far more than a recruitment company—she saw untold stories, student successes, and a chance to shape narratives that resonate. In this blog, we dive into Abirami’s journey at Next Gen and how crafting real-life stories has fueled her personal and professional growth.
Discovering Next Gen’s Narrative Potential
Abirami’s journalism coursework had taught her to identify the heart of any story. Yet, when she encountered Next Gen, she realized this organization contained living narratives—real students overcoming challenges, finding internships, and discovering new paths. “I joined Next Gen because I saw more than just a recruitment company. I saw stories waiting to be told: real students, real struggles, real wins,” Abirami explains. This mission aligned perfectly with her passion: “I wanted to use my creativity to shine a light on those journeys, especially because, as a student myself, I know how powerful it is to feel seen, heard, and supported.”
Transformative Skills and Confidence
Working at Next Gen went beyond drafting blog posts and social media captions. Abirami quickly learned how to develop narrative arcs that connect with a diverse audience—fellow students, potential employers, and industry partners. “This journey has been more than just a role; it’s been a mirror. It’s shown me what I’m capable of when I’m trusted to create with purpose.” Her experiences included:
- Writing Authentic Profiles. Interviewing students, extracting compelling quotes, and weaving them into cohesive feature articles.
- Content Strategy. Identifying themes that resonate within the university community—career tips, wellness advice, success stories—and aligning them with Next Gen’s broader mission.
- Visual Storytelling. Collaborating with designers to pair images, infographics, and videos with her written content to create a richer, multimedia experience.
These responsibilities bolstered her confidence not only as a writer but as a creative strategist. “I’ve learned to shape narratives that resonate with people, and that’s a skill I’ll carry with me forever no matter where I go next.”
Mentorship, Direction, and Care
Next Gen’s supportive environment proved invaluable for Abirami, especially as an international student balancing coursework and creative work. “Next Gen became my stepping stone in a time of uncertainty. As a student juggling ambition with self-doubt, I didn’t just need opportunity; I needed direction. And that’s exactly what they gave me.”
- Mentorship. Regular feedback sessions encouraged her to refine her storytelling techniques and think strategically about content that serves a purpose beyond clicks—content that inspires action.
- Career Conversations. One-on-one guidance helped Abirami articulate her strengths and identify future career pathways in journalism, marketing, and beyond.
- Genuine Care. “Their support was rooted in genuine care. They didn’t just open doors; they helped me believe I belonged in the rooms I was walking into.”
This combination of hands-on training and empathetic leadership helped Abirami carve a distinct voice, both on and off campus.
Proudest Moments and Key Takeaways
Rather than a single standout “proud moment,” Abirami highlights the power of ongoing appreciation: “Every time my boss acknowledges my work, no matter how small, I feel seen and valued. Those moments of recognition remind me I’m contributing and drive me to keep doing better.”
Key Takeaway
“Start before you feel ready. Your degree is important, but so is the version of you that’s growing behind the scenes. Say yes to opportunities that scare you a little, because that’s where growth lives. And remember, you don’t have to have it all figured out. Just stay curious, stay consistent, and trust that the small things you do now will shape something big later.”
This philosophy has guided Abirami through research deadlines and content calendars alike, cementing her belief that incremental effort can yield exponential impact.
Advice for Students Pursuing Parallel Paths
Abirami’s university and Next Gen obligations often overlapped—article deadlines collided with midterms, and creative deadlines competed with campus events. Yet she found strategies to excel:
- Embrace Humble Beginnings. “Your first assignment might feel imperfect, but it’s a crucial step. No one starts as an expert; you refine your craft as you go.”
- Prioritize and Plan. Use simple tools—a digital calendar, to-do list apps—to sync academic deadlines with content deliverables, ensuring neither is neglected.
- Seek Constructive Feedback. “Don’t wait for perfection. Publish your work, gather feedback, revise. In journalism, your work evolves with each edit and each reader’s insight.”
- Cultivate Resilience. “Rejection is part of the process—whether an article pitch doesn’t go through or a campaign underperforms. Each setback offers a lesson that fuels your next success.”
By weaving these principles into her routine, Abirami balances rigorous academic demands with creative responsibilities, setting herself up for a multifaceted career.
Conclusion
Abirami’s story at Next Gen exemplifies how a journalism student can translate classroom skills into real-world impact—crafting narratives that uplift peers and strengthen community bonds. In the process, she has grown into a confident storyteller, strategic thinker, and resilient professional. Her journey reminds us that the stories we tell aren’t just words on a page; they’re bridges connecting us to one another, fueling inspiration, and forging brighter futures.
Whether you’re studying journalism, exploring start-ups, or simply seeking to tell your own story, take a page from Abirami’s playbook: start before you feel ready, stay curious, and trust that your unique voice can make a meaningful difference.